Everbloom: Stories of Deeply Rooted and Transformed Lives officially releases today! I’m happy to take part along with other members of the Redbud Writers Guild and publisher Paraclete Press.
Stories form the core of Everbloom— stories of being deeply rooted in faith and living transformed lives, as the subtitle says. Some of these stories take shape as poetry, others as prose, but each one is personal and invites response.
Each entry in this collection also includes a prayer, and I offer this one from the book today:
Lord, help me leave a legacy of grace. Help me weather the storms that you have sent so that my words and actions will withstand the temptations and trials of this earth, so that I will not lose hope in your faithfulness. I pray that the work of faith you have begun in me will take root and spread. Amen. (37)
Writing/Reflection Prompt: I’m happy to host a giveaway from now until May 1, 7am Pacific. To enter the draw for a free copy of Everbloom, if you didn’t leave a comment yesterday, please answer this question below: What is the name of your favourite tree, and why is it your favourite? (I love these initial responses, and look forward to more!)
Whether or not you win a free copy, you may also wish to order an extra one or more to give away. Everbloom: Stories of Deeply Rooted and Transformed Lives is available on ChristianBook.com, BarnesandNoble.com, and Amazon.com.
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April Yamasaki 
I am just hearing about this book – definitely adding it to my to-read list! It looks like such an inspirational read. I think oak trees are my favourite. I love their shape, texture of their bark and the vastness of their branches! I am always drawn to them when taking photos.
Thanks for stopping by, Alyssa. I always think of the oak tree as strong and sturdy, and in that way your choice works well with the prayer I shared today too. May we weathering the storms like a mighty oak tree. I hope you’ll be inspired by the transforming power of the stories in Everbloom.
The Japanese maple is my favourite tree. There are so many varieties, they are small, and I’ve even managed to grow two in pots from tiny 2 inch saplings. No matter which color, light green in spring, turning yellow or red or orange in fall, they are a beautiful sight.
I love Japanese maples too, Mary, especially for the beautiful colours! Thank you for sharing, and God bless you.
I definitely have to say my favorite tree is the weeping willow. I just watch the the branches dance gracefully in the wind and it brings me such peace and joy for some reason. They truly are beautiful trees!
As I read your words, Brittany, I think of the weeping willow trees of my childhood that surrounded a pond across the street from our house. I always thought them sad since they were “weeping,” but now I can think of them as dancing too. Thanks for your comment.
Growing up, my Dad always had a thing for cedar trees. My mom threatened him that he was only allowed to have 99 trees. I believe as of this year, my dad has over 107, which is quite impressive since the house they moved in after my brother and I left home is not that big. I think because of this pleasant childhood memory and the power of persuasive psychology, cedars have become my favourite tree my association. However, given the Biblical story of the prophetess Deborah perhaps I should say palm tree instead (Judges 4:5). Looking forward to reading your book and possibly getting one for my church library as well 🙂 I always appreciate your writing!
Thank you, I think you’ll enjoy the range of stories in Everbloom, and I’d love for your church library to have a copy too. Cedar and palm trees make quite a combination!
Congratulations to Mary Derksen! You have won the draw for a free copy of Everbloom. I will get the book to you this week, and I hope you enjoy it. Thank you to everyone who left a comment and enriched our appreciation for trees. Stay tuned for another book giveaway starting May 8.